RENO — Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada is asking community members to consider starting the New Year by giving back to the local homeless population. In preparation for the collaborative “Project Homeless Connect” event, the organization is asking for donations of warm gloves, stocking caps, scarves, jackets, socks and underwear, as well as travel-sized toiletry items, sunscreen, bus passes, non-perishable food and cash.

The agency, in partnership with several dozen other local non-profit organizations that work with the homeless population, will distribute the donated items at the annual “Project Homeless Connect” event from 7 a.m. to noon on Jan. 22 at the Reno Events Center on Fourth and Center streets in downtown Reno. The event is part of a community-wide plan to help connect homeless individuals and families with services, such as medical, dental and vision care, disability services, haircuts, job resources, housing assistance and much more. About 700 homeless men, women and children are expected to attend this year’s event.

Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop at 500 E. Fourth St. in Reno. Upon drop off, specify that the donated items are for “Project Homeless Connect.” Pickup of donations can also be arranged by contacting Anne Schiller at 691-7768.